Kalen DeBoer reflects on journey to national championship, last ride with 'special group'

A whirlwind, two-year journey for Kalen DeBoer ends Monday night. Washington will take on Michigan in the College Football Playoff national championship, just a couple years removed from a 4-8 season.

For some of the Huskies’ biggest names, it will be their final time on a football field. That includes leading tackler Dominique Hampton, who’s one of a handful of players to spend six years at UW. There are also some notable transfers, led by Michael Penix Jr., who also left their mark on the program.

As DeBoer spoke with ESPN’s Molly McGrath ahead of kickoff, he seemed like he was trying to fight back the emotions. He pointed out the impact this “special group” has had, getting Washington on the doorstep of a title.

“When you talk about the nine guys who have been here for six years, and add some transfers in there like Michael, it’s a special group,” DeBoer said. “Last time for us together. These guys are gonna fight and scratch and claw and do everything they can to bring a W back home to the Huskies and back to Seattle.”

Kalen DeBoer’s first two seasons have been nothing short of impressive. The 2023 national coach of the year, he has led the Huskies to a 25-2 record, including a 14-0 mark this year, to reach the CFP national championship. They’ll try to win their first title since 1991 and cap off an incredible turnaround under DeBoer’s leadership.

Washington rose to the occasion in multiple big moments this year, and DeBoer thinks that will again be the case Monday night at NRG Stadium.

“I think all our experiences make us who we are,” DeBoer said. “We have a lot of confidence in the moments that have come our way and what will happen tonight. We’re ready to thrive and flourish in those tough times, and take advantage of the great opportunities that come, as well.”

Penix’s performance will be essential if Washington wants to have success against Michigan. But the health of Dillon Johnson is also paramount after he aggravated his foot injury in the Sugar Bowl against Texas. He made it clear he’s going to play, though, meaning the Huskies will have their leading rusher on the field on the biggest stage in college football.

“I won’t be 100% healthy on Monday, but I’ll be ready,” Johnson said this week, via The Action Network’s Collin Wilson.

Kickoff between Michigan and Washington is set for 7:30 p.m. ET.